HCF Health Insurance Review
HCF Health Insurance offers 8 health insurance plans, including HCF Hospital Basic Plus, HCF My Future Basic Plus, and HCF Hospital Premium Gold, starting from $8.15 per week up to $1,553.82 per year.
HCF Health Insurance offers unique services, such as their Gap Minimiser Tool, designed to help members avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses, and their HCF Catalyst Program, which supports the development of innovative health technologies through a specialised accelerator program.
| 🔎 Date Established | 1932 |
| 📌 Headquartered | Sydney, NSW, Australia |
| 📍 Registration Number | ABN 68 000 026 746 |
| 👤 Average Number of Members | 1.8 million |
| 👥 Number of Employees | Over 1,800 |
| 🛡️ APRA-Regulated | ✅Yes |
| 📉 The Most Recent Market Cap Reported | Not publicly disclosed |
| 📈 Average Customer Rating | 4.35/5 on Finder |
| 📊 Average Number of Reviews | Data not specified |
| 💹 Market Share | 12.5% as of the most recent reports |
| 8️⃣ Number of Plans Offered | 8 |
| 🏆 Sponsorships | Royal Flying Doctor Service, The Smith Family, Netball Australia |
| 📲 Is a Mobile App Offered | ✅Yes |
| 🖱️ Medical Claims Portal | Through the “My Membership” app and online member services |
| ⏰ Customer Support Operating Hours | Mon-Fri, 8:30 am to 5 pm and Saturdays 9 am – 5 pm (AEST/AEDT) |
| 📑 Information Hub and Blog | ✅Yes |
| 🧑⚕️ Chronic Illness Benefits | Covered, with additional mental health coverage on selected extras |
| 🩺 Screening and Prevention Offered | Heart health checks and preventive health sessions |
| 🍼 Maternity Benefit | On selected plans like My Family Advanced Silver Plus |
| 💊 Health Insurance Contribution Range (AUD) | From $8.15 to $1,553.82 annually |
| ⌛ Average Waiting Period | Ranges depending on coverage, typically from 2 months to 12 months |
| 🌎 Is International Medical Cover Offered | On Overseas Visitors Cover |
| ⚙️ International Travel Benefit | With HCF Travel Insurance available |
HCF Health Insurance Plan Overview
| 🔎 Plan | 💴 Premium Range AUD (Min to Max, Weekly to Yearly) | 🪫 Exclusions | ❤️ Ideal For | ↪️ Gap Cover | 📉 Rebate Percentage | 📈 Average Waiting Period | 📊 Key Features |
| 🥇 HCF Hospital Basic Plus | $8.15 - $425.29 | Major procedures, IVF, elective cosmetic surgeries | Individuals or couples on a budget | ✅Yes | 8.202% to 32.812% | 2 to 12 months | Hospital cover, emergency ambulance, accident cover |
| 🥈 HCF Hospital Bronze Plus | $9.60 - $501.19 | Heart, back surgery, pregnancy | Young individuals, singles, small families | ✅Yes | 8.202% to 32.812% | 2 to 12 months | Broader hospital cover, limited major surgeries |
| 🥉 HCF My Future Basic Plus | $12.42 - $648.20 | Pregnancy, IVF, non-medically necessary surgeries | Young singles and couples | ✅Yes | 8.202% to 32.812% | 2 to 12 months | Choice of excess, flexible extras, accident cover |
| 🏅 HCF Hospital Standard Silver Plus | $11.98 - $624.23 | Limited IVF services, exclusions for some surgeries | Couples and individuals planning for future needs | ✅Yes | 8.202% to 32.812% | 2 to 12 months | Comprehensive hospital cover, pregnancy cover option |
| 🎖️ HCF Hospital Silver Plus | $23.02 - $1,200.98 | IVF, elective surgeries | Couples and families wanting comprehensive cover | ✅Yes | 8.202% to 32.812% | 2 to 12 months | Includes heart services, joint replacements |
| 🥇 HCF My Family Silver Plus | $21.69 - $1,132.22 | Non-essential therapies, some elective services | Families with growing children | ✅Yes | 8.202% to 32.812% | 2 to 12 months | Family-friendly cover, no excess for kids, pregnancy cover |
| 🥈 HCF Hospital Premium Gold | $29.77 - $1,553.82 | Non-covered cosmetic services | Families, couples planning families | ✅Yes | 8.202% to 32.812% | 2 to 12 months | Comprehensive maternity, high-level hospital cover |
| 🥉 HCF My Family Advanced Silver Plus | $24.44 - $1,276.07 | Limited elective surgeries | Larger families, growing children | ✅Yes | 8.202% to 32.812% | 2 to 12 months | Enhanced family services, extensive maternity options |
Health Insurance Plans – Features and Benefits
HCF Health Insurance offers plans for different groups, including singles, couples, families, and single parents. Understanding these plans, their benefits, and specific features can help potential members make informed choices based on their health and financial needs.
Pricing on plans is currently based on weekly/yearly rates for plans in the Northern Territory for members <65 with an annual income of <$97,000.
HCF Hospital Basic Plus
The HCF Hospital Basic Plus Plan has entry-level coverage for essential hospital services. It provides a fundamental safety net for those who require basic health coverage without additional costs for comprehensive services.
| 🔎 Plan Name | 💶 Premium Range (AUD) | ↪️ Exclusions | ➡️ Waiting Period | 💙 Ideal For | 📈 Key Features |
| Hospital Basic Plus | $8.15/week - $425.29/year | Elective surgeries, IVF | Up to 12 months | Singles, Couples, Families | Accident safeguard, No excess for children under 25 |
Key Features and Benefits
Choice of Excess
Flexible excess options allow members to choose between $500 and $750 to manage their premiums.
Accident Safeguard
Provides comprehensive benefits for up to 90 days if an accident occurs and treatment starts within 24 hours.
Emergency Ambulance Cover
Includes coverage for emergency transport in critical situations.
No Excess for Same-Day Treatments
Eliminates excess payments for same-day hospital admissions.
Coverage for Common Surgeries
Includes basic procedures such as appendix and tonsil removal.
Budget-Friendly
Aimed at individuals and families for essential services without extra costs for specialised treatments.
Post-Hospital Rehabilitation
Offers rehabilitation support post-hospitalisation.
Mental Health Support
Basic coverage for certain mental health-related services.
Ideal for
Young singles, couples on a budget, and families with older children.
HCF Hospital Bronze Plus
The HCF Hospital Bronze Plus Plan provides a balanced level of hospital coverage for those looking for essential hospital services with a focus on affordability and safety.
| 🔎 Plan Name | 💶 Premium Range (AUD) | ↪️ Exclusions | ➡️ Waiting Period | 💙 Ideal For | 📈 Key Features |
| Hospital Bronze Plus | $9.60/week - $501.19/year | Heart, back surgery | Up to 12 months | Singles, Families | Emergency ambulance, Accident safeguard |
Key Features and Benefits
Emergency Services Coverage
This offers coverage for essential medical procedures and emergency services.
Accident Safeguard
Comprehensive protection during emergencies.
No Excess for Children
Removes excess charges for children under 25, making it ideal for young families.
Affordable Flexibility
Provides flexibility with excess options to suit financial preferences.
Basic Rehabilitation Coverage
Includes basic rehabilitation services following medical treatment.
Ideal for
Young singles, budget-conscious couples, and families without the need for extensive benefits.
📌 Read more about 10 Best Private Health Insurance
HCF My Future Basic Plus
The HCF My Future Basic Plus Plan offers tailored coverage focusing on providing essential services with additional extras and no-gap features.
| 🔎 Plan Name | 💶 Premium Range (AUD) | ↪️ Exclusions | ➡️ Waiting Period | 💙 Ideal For | 📈 Key Features |
| My Future Basic Plus | $12.42/week - $648.20/year | Pregnancy, IVF | Up to 12 months | Singles, Couples | No-gap services, Additional optical benefits |
Key Features and Benefits
Choice of Excess
Members can choose from $250, $500, or $750 excess levels.
Flexible Extras
Allows members to access various extras based on individual needs.
100% Back on First Visit
Coverage for the first visit to key services like physiotherapy, chiropractic care, and more.
Accident Safeguard
Provides hospital benefits for accidents requiring immediate medical attention.
Optical Benefits
Covers optical services such as eye tests and prescription glasses.
Comprehensive Dental Cover
Includes general and major dental services.
Post-Operative Care
Offers rehabilitation and recovery services following surgery.
Ideal for
Young singles and couples looking for flexible extras and affordable hospital cover.
HCF Hospital Standard Silver Plus
The HCF Hospital Standard Silver Plus Plan is a mid-level hospital cover designed to provide comprehensive benefits for those seeking a balance between affordability and essential services.
| 🔎 Plan Name | 💶 Premium Range (AUD) | ↪️ Exclusions | ➡️ Waiting Period | 💙 Ideal For | 📈 Key Features |
| Hospital Standard Silver Plus | $11.98/week - $624.23/year | Limited IVF services | Up to 12 months | Singles, Families | Extensive rehabilitation and emergency services |
Key Features and Benefits
Private Hospital Coverage
This covers a range of private hospital services, including heart and joint care.
No Excess for Same-Day Treatments
This eliminates excess charges for outpatient services.
Accident Safeguard
Covers up to 90 days following an accident.
Ideal for
Singles, couples, and families with older children.
HCF Hospital Silver Plus
The HCF Hospital Silver Plus Plan offers comprehensive coverage with enhanced options for hospital services, targeting members looking for extended benefits.
| 🔎 Plan Name | 💶 Premium Range (AUD) | ↪️ Exclusions | ➡️ Waiting Period | 💙 Ideal For | 📈 Key Features |
| Hospital Silver Plus | $23.02/week - $1,200.98/year | Cosmetic surgeries | Up to 12 months | Couples, Families | Heart care, maternity, cancer coverage |
Key Features and Benefits
Heart and Vascular Coverage
This covers essential and elective heart-related procedures.
Orthopedic Surgeries
Includes joint replacement surgeries and hip and knee procedures.
Assisted Reproductive Treatments
Includes coverage for fertility-related services.
Maternity Benefits
Comprehensive maternity cover with prenatal and postnatal support.
Rehabilitation Support
Includes benefits for rehabilitation services following major surgeries.
Cancer Treatment
This covers chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and related cancer treatments.
Private Room Options
Availability of private room options in participating hospitals.
Ideal for
Couples, families planning for children, and those with specific medical needs.
HCF My Family Silver Plus Hospital
The HCF My Family Silver Plus Hospital Plan caters specifically to families, offering extensive coverage with added benefits for young dependents.
| 🔎 Plan Name | 💶 Premium Range (AUD) | ↪️ Exclusions | ➡️ Waiting Period | 💙 Ideal For | 📈 Key Features |
| My Family Silver Plus | $21.69/week - $1,132.22/year | Cosmetic surgeries | Up to 12 months | Families, Couples | No excess for children, maternity coverage |
Key Features and Benefits
No Excess for Children
Removes excess charges for children under 25.
Extensive Maternity Cover
Covers prenatal and postnatal services for families planning to have children.
Comprehensive Dental for Kids
Includes major dental coverage for young dependents.
Access to Emergency Services
Provides broad emergency and urgent care benefits.
Ideal for
Families with young dependents and couples planning to expand their family.
HCF Hospital Premium Gold
The HCF Hospital Premium Gold Plan offers top-tier coverage for members prioritising high-level healthcare.
| 🔎 Plan Name | 💶 Premium Range (AUD) | ↪️ Exclusions | ➡️ Waiting Period | 💙 Ideal For | 📈 Key Features |
| Hospital Premium Gold | $29.77/week - $1,553.82/year | Elective cosmetic services | Up to 12 months | Families, Couples | Comprehensive maternity, no excess for children |
Key Features and Benefits
Comprehensive Maternity Cover
This covers pregnancy and childbirth services with a 12-month waiting period.
No Excess for Same-Day Treatments
This reduces immediate financial burdens.
Extensive Heart and Vascular Care
Includes specialised heart surgeries and monitoring.
Assisted Reproductive Services
Coverage for IVF and fertility-related treatments.
Cancer Treatments
Comprehensive cancer care, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Post-Hospital Rehabilitation
Provides rehabilitation services to aid recovery.
Chronic Disease Management
This offers additional benefits for chronic illness management.
Ideal for
Families, couples planning to grow their families, and singles prioritising comprehensive healthcare.
HCF Health Insurance Extras
HCF Starter Extras
From $4/week; covers general dental and therapies.
HCF Starter Extras (With Optical)
From $5.30/week; includes basic dental, optical, and selected therapies.
HCF Flex My Extras
From $8.95/week; offers flexible limits, optical benefits, and a gap bonus.
HCF Mid Extras
From $10.70/week; balanced limits for dental, optical, and various therapies.
HCF Vital Extras
From $18.85/week; extensive coverage for dental, optical, therapies, and orthodontics.
HCF Top Extras
From $25.10/week; premium coverage with high limits for dental, optical, therapies, and orthodontics.
HCF Health Insurance Recent User Reviews
🥇 Easy Claims Process with HCF.
The claim procedure has always been easy for me with HCF for over five years. Their web gateway makes submitting claims straightforward, and I’ve never had payment delays. – Jane
🥈 Great Coverage and Transparency
After switching to HCF, their additional cover is great for dental and physio visits. Knowing my normal needs are covered and having clear coverage information is reassuring. HCF has transparent policies and pricing, which I like. The premiums are comparable to other funds, but knowing what’s covered without surprises is a comfort. – Lilly
HCF Health Insurance vs HBF Health Insurance vs Bupa Private Health Insurance – A Comparison
| 🔎 Provider | 🥇 HCF Health Insurance | 🥈 HBF Health Insurance | 🥉 Bupa Private Health Insurance |
| 📌 Years in Operation | Since 1932 | Since 1941 | Since 1947 |
| 📍 Average Number of Members | Over 1.8 million | Over 1 million | Over 18.5 million globally |
| 📉 APRA Regulation | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| 📈 Number of Employees | Over 1,800 | Not specified | 26,000+ (including partnerships and subsidiaries under NIB) |
| 📊 Market Share | Approximately 12.5% | 7.82% | 24.9% |
| 💹 Market Coverage | Primarily Australia, with an extensive branch network | Nationwide | Global |
| ❤️ Customer Rating | High satisfaction ratings with multiple awards | 4.1 stars | 4.2/5 |
| 🔢 Number of Reviews | Over 5,000 across major platforms | Approximately 6,500 | 1,500 - 2,000 across major platforms |
| 📲 Mobile App | My Membership App | MyHBF app | MyBupa App |
| 💶 Premium Range (AUD) | Varies by plan and location | $14.96 per week to $2,685.16 per year | $17.98/week to $3,074.18/year depending on plan |
| 🌎 International Travel Benefit | Limited coverage through additional policies | Limited suspension options are available | Covered through international policies |
| ↪️ Market Capitalisation | Not applicable (Not-for-profit) | Not applicable (not-for-profit) | Not publicly listed |
| ⭐ Unique Features | No-Gap dental, Home healthcare programs, community-driven approach | Reinvestment into member benefits, flexible plans | Dental check-ups, gap cover scheme, Members First hospitals |
The Advantages of HCF Health Insurance
HCF Health Insurance focuses on community and member benefits, offering innovative solutions to meet diverse healthcare needs. As Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund, HCF reinvests in its members rather than generating profits. Members receive 100% back on essential dental check-ups and their first visit to a physiotherapist, chiropractor, or osteopath through HCF’s No-Gap network, reducing out-of-pocket expenses.
With hospital cover for at least 12 months, members can also get a free second medical opinion from an Australian specialist. HCF offers increased mental health coverage, hospital-grade services at home, and free preventive health check-ups for conditions like heart disease.
Additionally, members can enjoy exclusive rewards through the HCF Thank You Program, including discounts on groceries and entertainment.
HCF Health Insurance Gap Cover
HCF Health Insurance offers different types of gap cover to minimise unexpected expenses and support members’ healthcare needs.
| 🔎 State | 🛡️ Gap Cover Availability Rating |
| 📉 New South Wales | High - Extensive hospital and medical gap coverage |
| 📈 Victoria | Medium - Medical gap available, limited in non-participating hospitals |
| 📊 Queensland | High - Comprehensive gap cover with the wide hospital network |
| 💹 Western Australia | Medium - Limited hospital gap, medical gap widely covered |
| 📉 South Australia | High - Broad coverage in major cities and select rural areas |
| 📈 Tasmania | Low - Coverage is more restricted outside urban centers |
Impact on Out-of-Pocket Expenses
Gap cover addresses two primary types of gaps: hospital and medical.
Hospital gap refers to expenses when the costs of hospital services exceed HCF’s coverage, like accommodation, surgical implants, or restricted services at certain facilities.
To mitigate these expenses, HCF collaborates with a large network of participating private hospitals, which helps ensure more comprehensive in-hospital coverage for members.
The medical gap arises when there is a difference between what a healthcare provider charges and the combined amount that Medicare and HCF will cover under the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS).
HCF covers the gap between Medicare’s 75% contribution and the remaining 25% of the MBS fee, but if a doctor charges above this limit, members are responsible for the extra costs.
HCF offers unique features like its No-Gap network, which provides 100% back on selected dental check-ups, optical services, and therapies. The Gap Bonus offers added financial support for extras not fully covered, starting after 12 months of continuous membership.
HCF Health Insurance App Features
The My Membership App by HCF Health Insurance improves the member experience by streamlining claims, payment management, and access to health resources. Members can easily lodge claims for extras, ambulance services, and more, upload receipts, track claim status, and receive quick reimbursements.
The app also offers a digital membership card with a QR code for on-the-spot claims at selected providers. For security, members can use biometric authentication or a passcode to log in. The app shows remaining limits for services like dental, physiotherapy, and optical, helping members track their benefits.
It also allows members to update bank details, manage payment schedules, and access health programs and wellness information.
How to apply for Health Insurance with HCF
To apply for Health Insurance through HCF Health Insurance, you must:
- Go to the HCF Health Insurance website. Click on the “Get a Quote” section to initiate your application.
- Provide personal information such as your age, location, and preferred type of cover (singles, couples, families). This information helps HCF tailor a suitable plan for you.
- Once your details are submitted, the system displays a list of recommended plans. Review the features, exclusions, and pricing of each plan.
- Choose the plan that aligns with your needs. Click “Apply Now” to proceed.
- Complete the registration form by entering additional details and agreeing to the terms and conditions.
Finalize your application by making the initial payment and receiving confirmation via email.
How to apply for Gap Cover
Gap cover at HCF minimises out-of-pocket expenses for medical and hospital services. Below is a step-by-step guide on enrolling in gap cover with HCF:
- Log in to your account via the HCF Member Portal.
- Navigate to the “Gap Cover Options” section.
- Review the available gap cover options and select the one that fits your medical requirements.
- Complete the online enrollment form and confirm your selection.
Submit the form and review any waiting periods that apply.
How to Submit a Claim
HCF Health Insurance allows members to submit claims for hospital, extras, and ambulance services. Before submitting a claim, members should check if they’ve served the waiting periods and verify their coverage. Claims can be submitted in several ways:
On-the-Spot Claims
Use your physical or digital membership card for immediate claims at participating providers, with any remaining balance paid directly to the provider.
Digital Submission
Upload receipts through the My Membership App or online services by selecting “Claims” and “Make a Claim.”
Branch Visit
Visit any HCF branch with original receipts and your membership card for in-person claim processing.
Postal Claims
Send a completed claim form and original receipts to HCF’s mailing address. Make sure all information is accurate to prevent delays.
How to Downgrade My Plan
Members of HCF Health Insurance might consider downgrading their plan for a few reasons, such as adjusting to a tighter budget or opting for simpler coverage as their healthcare needs change.
Before making this decision, members must understand the implications, such as changes to benefit limits and waiting periods, that could impact future claims. To downgrade, follow these steps:
- Log in to your HCF online account through the member portal.
- Navigate to the “Manage My Cover” section and select “Plan Change” from the dropdown menu.
- Compare the coverage options that fit your new requirements. Carefully review the inclusions, exclusions, and new benefit limits.
- Once you have chosen a suitable plan, select “Confirm Plan Change.” You may be prompted to accept updated terms and waiting periods.
If you’re uncertain or need further guidance, contact HCF customer support to clarify potential impacts.
How do I add a Beneficiary to HCF Health Insurance?
If you want to add a child or adult dependent, you can follow these steps:
- Log in to the HCF online member portal using your account credentials.
- Go to the “My Policy” section and find the “Beneficiary” option.
- Complete the relevant details, such as the name, relationship, and date of birth of the added individual.
- Confirm the details and submit the changes. A confirmation email or notification will be sent upon successful completion.
Check your policy summary to ensure the beneficiary information is updated accurately.
How to Submit a Compliment or Complaint
To submit a compliment or complaint to HCF Health Insurance, you can do so through several channels. First, log in to the HCF member portal and navigate to the “Compliments and Complaints” section, where you can fill out a feedback form. HCF typically responds within three business days.
Alternatively, you can call HCF customer support at 13 13 34 to speak with a representative, and if needed, a Resolution Officer will be assigned to your complaint. You may also visit any HCF branch to provide feedback in person, where staff will assist you with the process.
If your concern is not resolved, you can request an independent review within HCF or contact the relevant Ombudsman for external resolution.
How to Switch my Health Insurance to HCF Health Insurance
Switching to HCF Health Insurance offers benefits, including no re-serving waiting periods for equivalent benefits and access to additional member services. Understanding the steps involved can simplify the transition process.
- Visit the HCF website to compare available plans and select one that fits your needs.
- Provide the necessary details and complete the online application form. Ensure that the “Interfund Transfer” section is filled accurately to enable seamless transfer of information.
- HCF liaises with your current insurer to obtain a Clearance Certificate. This step ensures a smooth transition without overlapping coverage.
- Verify that the policy details and waiting periods align with your coverage.
Once your application is processed and confirmed, your HCF policy becomes active, and you can start enjoying the benefits.
HCF Health Insurance Pet Cover
HCF Health Insurance extends its comprehensive offerings beyond traditional health coverage to include pet insurance, ensuring that members’ furry companions receive the necessary care when health issues arise.
The pet insurance plans cater to the needs of cats and dogs with coverage options that align with different life stages and veterinary needs. Here are the key features of HCF’s pet insurance:
- Members can claim up to 80% back on eligible veterinary expenses, easing the financial burden of unexpected medical costs for pets.
- Members insuring more than one pet are eligible for up to a 10% discount on additional policies, making protecting all pets in the household easier.
- Provides unlimited virtual consultations with registered veterinarians through HCF’s VetChat service, available by phone or video.
- Additional coverage for routine care services such as vaccinations, dental care, and wellness check-ups tailored to the pet’s needs.
- Enables members to pay only the difference between the vet’s invoice and the covered amount, helping to reduce upfront costs at participating veterinary clinics.
Allows policyholders to choose from multiple excess levels ($0, $50, $100, and $200) to control premiums and out-of-pocket expenses.
HCF Health Insurance Travel Insurance
HCF Health Insurance offers travel insurance solutions to help members manage the risks of both domestic and international trips. Through Allianz Global Assistance, HCF provides 24/7 emergency medical services and travel-related support. The travel insurance includes emergency medical coverage for expenses incurred during international travel, such as hospitalization and treatment costs.
It also covers trip cancellations, delays, or interruptions caused by events like severe weather or airline disruptions. Members are protected against lost or delayed luggage with reimbursement options for essential items and replacements. The policy offers limited coverage for pandemic-related issues, like COVID-19, with clear exclusions.
Flexible options are available for single trips, multi-trip plans, and family policies, ensuring coverage for various travel needs. Additionally, HCF provides 24/7 assistance from Australian-based case managers and registered medical professionals to handle emergencies.
📌 Learn more about InsureandGo Travel Insurance
HCF Health Insurance Corporate Responsibility
As Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund, HCF focuses on creating lasting value for its members, supporting healthcare advancements, and fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.
- HCF has invested over $31 million through its Research Foundation to support health service innovation. The foundation funds projects to improve healthcare delivery, explore new care models, and address biases in patient care, benefiting both HCF members and the broader Australian community.
- HCF collaborates with healthcare providers like Ramsay Health Care to improve patient access and offer innovative care models. Additionally, HCF runs health and wellness programs such as the COACH Program and Healthy Families for Life, promoting preventive care and healthy lifestyles.
- HCF supports emerging healthcare startups by providing seed funding, mentoring, and networking opportunities through the HCF Catalyst Program.
HCF actively pursues sustainable business practices to reduce its environmental impact.
HCF Health Insurance Regulation
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) regulate private health insurance in Australia. HCF Health Insurance is a member of APRA under ABN 68 000 026 746.
The primary regulatory framework comes under the Private Health Insurance Act 2007, alongside the oversight functions of APRA and ACCC. Specific Responsibilities and Regulatory Focus Areas of APRA and ACCC:
- Maintaining Financial Stability: The APRA actively monitors private health insurers through regular risk assessments and financial stress testing to ensure their solvency.
- Ensuring Fair Pricing and Transparency: The ACCC oversees premium adjustments, reviewing increases to confirm they meet regulatory standards and safeguard consumer fairness.
APRA and ACCC are dedicated to enforcing market integrity, shielding members from misconduct and potential financial threats.
HCF Health Insurance Awards and Recognition
HCF has recently received several prestigious awards. It has won Canstar’s Outstanding Value Health Insurance Award for nine consecutive years. In 2024, HCF received state-based awards for its high-quality hospital and extra coverage in Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia.
HCF Life was also recognized with the Mozo Experts’ Choice Award for three years in a row for its exceptional value in income protection insurance. Additionally, HCF’s Recover Cover range earned the Innovation Product Award for two consecutive years, highlighting the company’s commitment to innovative, tailored products for its members.
Customer Support and Contact Details
| 🔎 Support Channel | 📌 Details |
| ☎️ Phone Support | Call 13 13 34 (Mon-Fri, 8:30 am – 5 pm, Sat 9 am – 5 pm AEST/AEDT). Non-members call 13 68 42 (Australia) or +61 2 9290 0100 (International). |
| 💌 Email Support | Email inquiries to [email protected]. Responses within 3 business days. |
| 🚩 Branch Services | Visit any HCF branch for in-person assistance. Specialized centres available for Dental and Eyecare. |
| 🅰️ Self-Service Portal | Use the My Membership app or online member services for claims, coverage management, and updates. |
| 🅱️ Mailing Address | HCF, GPO BOX 4242, Sydney, NSW 2001. |
| 📉 Social Media | Active on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn. |
| ❤️ Complaints and Feedback | Submit complaints through HCF’s Complaints & Feedback page. Members can escalate issues within HCF or to an external Ombudsman. |
HCF Health Insurance Rebates and Discounts
HCF Health has a few discount and rebate options. The Australian Government determines rebates and discounts to reward member loyalty and different payment preferences. Here’s what HCF Health Insurance offers:
- Some members can qualify for the Australian Government Rebate on private health insurance. For those aged 65 and over, rebates can reach up to 32.812%. The rebate can be applied as a premium reduction or claimed as a tax offset.
- HCF offers special discounts to families who enroll multiple members or hold additional pet or travel insurance policies.
- Members who pay their premiums using direct debit can receive potential savings.
The HCF Thank You program provides long-standing members with cashback rewards, discounts on essentials like groceries, and savings on lifestyle expenses.
Additional Health Services and Products
Apart from its health plans, rebates, discounts, and other products and services, here are a few additional options from HCF:
- The Hospital at Home Program lets eligible members receive complex treatments like chemotherapy, rehabilitation, and wound care within the comfort of their homes.
- Second Opinion Service offers members 12 months of hospital coverage and access to a free second medical opinion from HCF’s network of Australian specialists.
- The Weight Management and Health Programs include evidence-based initiatives such as the CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet and other health-focused programs like antenatal classes and group physiotherapy sessions.
Moreover, Dental and Optical Centres give members direct access to HCF’s network of dental and optical centres.
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Offers flexible options for different member needs | Limited specialised cover for certain high-cost medical treatments |
| Extensive network of participating hospitals and No-Gap providers | Some plans have restricted services with minimum benefit payments |
| Offers unique services like Hospital at Home and Second Opinion | Out-of-pocket costs vary based on location and cover |
| There are multiple loyalty and reward programs for long-term members | Waiting periods apply for key services |
| Offers comprehensive mental health support services on selected extras | Benefits for some therapies are capped |
| There are high reimbursement rates on select dental and optical services | No-gap provider network limited to specific areas and services |
| Customisable excess options for members | Annual limits on extra services can be restrictive |
In Conclusion
Overall, HCF Health Insurance offers health insurance plans that cater to essential services and specialised programs.
From no-gap dental services to comprehensive maternity coverage, HCF prioritises flexibility and personalised benefits. Members benefit from initiatives like Hospital at Home and mental health support on selected plans, which add value beyond standard hospital coverage.
While its extensive hospital network and gap cover options help limit out-of-pocket expenses, some exclusions and waiting periods for high-cost treatments can be restrictive. Members should carefully evaluate their coverage needs against these limitations.
Despite this, HCF reinvests earnings into member benefits, reflecting a focus on accessible and supportive healthcare.
Our findings show that HCF balances affordability with targeted benefits, making it a solid option for Australians who want straightforward and community-driven health insurance options.
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HCF Health Insurance FAQ
Can you switch to Medibank without having to re-serve your waiting period?
Yes, if you transfer from another insurer within two months and have the same level of coverage, you won’t have to re-serve waiting periods that have already been completed.
How can I file a claim to Medibank?
You can use your digital membership card to submit claims using the Medibank app, online portal, or at partner providers.
What is the Medibank Live Better rewards program?
Members of Live Better are rewarded for their healthy actions with points that can be used for discounts and special offers on products and services.
Does Medibank cover pre-existing conditions?
Yes, Medibank covers pre-existing conditions after a 12-month waiting period, depending on the coverage level.
